DUNGENESS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, SEQUIM, WA :: Kristie and I had an amazing day hiking Dungeness Spit, reputedly the world's longest at five miles. It is located near Sequim, the state's driest spot. We could actually see the Olympic rain shadow stretch behind the mountains: a pocket of clear sky surrounded by less inviting weather.

At the end of the spit is a charming lighthouse, occupied by volunteers that stay a week and provide tours for visitors. Today, we were guided by two young brothers, no older than 12, enjoying a quiet weekend with their dad.

Along the way, we saw an incredible variety of wildlife: snowy owls, bald eagles, harbor seals, gulls, ducks, geese, little baby sandpipers, black brants, hawks and deer. My camera's shutter was firing away nonstop, and I am quite pleased with the results!

We hiked the 10 miles and toured the lighthouse in just under five hours. High tide was at its peak as we started, and at times, the spit was quite narrow. We highly recommend this unforgettable hike, but consult a tide table before you go!

I loved your pics! If anyone can travel to Sequim, you will not be dissapointed! Its like a whole different world out there. A+ on the pics !